Debt & Money Smarts

While you don't want to forget to give a gift to anyone, paring down the list can be tough, especially if you're on a budget. "If money's tight, pick those service providers with whom you have an ongoing personal relationship and whom you see on a regular basis," says consumer-behavior and tipping expert David Strohmetz, Ph.D., an associate professor of psychology at Monmouth University.

Strohmetz also points out that while many people prefer receiving cash, a small gift can also express your heartfelt thanks. Here are some of our ideas, along with some from Consumer Reports and CNN, for the people who made your year a little bit easier.